By Chris Wright, British Columbia Institute of Technology
At BCIT’s GIS Program, our goal is to provide students with exposure to a broad range of geospatial tools and technologies used throughout the industry. FME is an important part of that mix. As a widely adopted platform for data processing and workflow automation, it gives students experience with tools that are commonly used across the geospatial sector.
We incorporate FME into courses such as Fundamentals of GIS and Geospatial Systems Management to help students develop practical skills that they can carry into the workforce.
Building a Broader Understanding of Data Processing
One of the biggest impacts for our students has been gaining a broader understanding of data processing and geospatial application development.
By working with both FME Form and FME Flow, students learn how data can be processed, managed, and delivered efficiently. This helps them develop a view beyond individual datasets and better understand the workflows that support geospatial operations.
FME stands out as a learning platform because of its efficient data processing, extensive support for geospatial and aspatial formats, robust canvas-based workflow builder, and the ability to retain rejected data for QA/QC review.
These capabilities help students develop practical skills while working with tools and workflows that are widely used throughout the industry.
Advice for Other Instructors
For instructors considering the FME Grant Program, my advice is simple. FME is an industry-accepted data processing tool that can be used to support quality learning opportunities for students.
Its broad adoption, extensive format support, and workflow-based approach make it a valuable addition to programs that prepare students for careers in the geospatial field.
